BUTCH D.

MANRIQUEZ BS PSYCHOLOGY 2
ASSIGNMENT 1
The Asch Conformity Experiments
By: Kendra Cherry, MSEd

The Asch conformity experiments, conducted by Solomon Asch in the 1950s,

demonstrated the powerful influence of group pressure on individual behavior and opinion. In
these experiments, participants were asked to judge the lengths of lines, with confederates
deliberately providing incorrect answers. Asch found that many participants conformed to the
group's incorrect judgments, even when they knew they were wrong.

This research has had a significant impact on the field of psychology. It highlighted the
extent to which people are willing to conform to social norms and the pressure to fit in, even at
the expense of accuracy. Asch's experiments spurred further investigation into conformity and
group dynamics, leading to a deeper understanding of human behavior in social contexts. Asch's
experiments showed that how much someone follows others can change depending on how many
people are in the group, if they all agree, and how clear the situation is. This can be useful for
understanding how people act in different situations, like in social groups, at work, or when
buying things.

Moreover, Asch's experiments have contributed to our understanding of topics such as

obedience, social influence, and decision-making processes. They underscore the importance of
individual autonomy and critical thinking in the face of social pressure. Thus, the Asch
conformity experiments remain a cornerstone of psychological research, providing valuable
insights into human behavior and the dynamics of group interaction. They continue to influence
both theoretical understanding and practical applications in various fields within psychology.

REFERENCES
Asch SE. Studies of independence and conformity: I. A minority of one against a unanimous

majority. Psychological Monographs: General and Applied. 1956;70(9):1-70.

doi:10.1037/h0093718

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author

of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Morgan TJH, Laland KN, Harris PL. The development of adaptive conformity in young children:

effects of uncertainty and consensus. Dev Sci. 2015;18(4):511-524.

doi:10.1111/desc.12231